Appeal panel proceedings—Determination.

(1) At the conclusion of the hearing, the student conduct appeal panel will permit the parties to make closing statements in whatever form it wishes to receive them. The panel also may permit each party to propose findings, conclusions, and/or a proposed decision for its consideration.

(2) Only members of the student conduct appeal panel and the advisor to the panel, if any, will be present for deliberations. Deliberations are not recorded.

(3) Within fifteen calendar days following the conclusion of the hearing, or the panel's receipt of closing arguments, whichever is later, the panel will issue a decision in accordance with RCW 34.05.461 and WAC 10-08-210 or written notice specifying the date by which it will issue a decision. The decision will include findings on all material issues of fact and conclusions on all material issues of law, including which, if any, provisions of the code were violated. Any findings based substantially on the credibility of evidence or the demeanor of witnesses will be so identified.

(4) The panel's decision will also include a determination on appropriate resolution and sanction(s), if any. The panel may affirm, reverse, or modify the required resolution and sanction(s) issued by the student conduct official and/or issue additional sanction(s) or condition(s) as authorized herein.

(5) The panel's decision will also include a statement of the available procedures and time frames for seeking reconsideration. The decision will also include a notice whether appeal to Thurston County superior court is available.

(6) The panel chair will serve copies of the decision on the parties through the senior college official's office. It is the responsibility of the student to forward any notice or communication to their advisor. If a student signs a release of information, the chair of the panel will provide the decision to legal counsel representing a student.

(7) In cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct or assault, the chair of the student conduct appeal panel, on the same date as the decision is served to the respondent, will serve a written notice to the complainant informing the complainant of the panel's decision and describing any sanction(s) and/or condition(s) issued to the respondent, including suspension or expulsion of the respondent. The complainant may request reconsideration of the panel's decision subject to the same procedures and deadlines applicable to other parties. The notice will also inform the complainant of the available procedures and time frames for seeking reconsideration. The decision will also include a notice whether appeal to Thurston County superior court is available.